One of the main differences between the U.S. and European civilian gun markets is the very large presence in the former of manufacturers of so-called "aftermarket" parts, i.e., components that are perfectly interchangeable with the original ones. Barrels, slides, upper and lower receivers, trigger assemblies, magazines, sights, but also stocks and grips are available either as spare parts (and therefore with shapes and dimensions identical to the original) or in extended, oversized, improved, or simply different versions so that you can customize your guns according to your own taste. In recent times, some of the companies that originally made accessories managed to take the plunge and become full-fledged gun manufacturers. This is the case, for example, with Zev Technologies, which started out in the proverbial garage to make triggers, but thanks to its success has now turned into a top-level manufacturer of Glock-style handguns.
Much the same path has been followed by Anderson Manufacturing of Hebron, Kentucky, which has moved from making accessories to whole guns, with a catalog that now has several variants of "black rifle" and two versions of a polymer-framed, atriker-fired pistol, the Kiger-9c.
Kiger-9c and 9c PRO semi-automatic pistols
Based on a now more than proven mechanical and operational platform, the Kiger-9c is a 9mm locked-breech semi-automatic pistol. The frame is made of polymer and takes a Magpul double-stack magazine with a capacity of 15+1 cartridges. For sale in states where magazine capacity is restricted, the 9c is equipped with a magazine limited to 10 rounds instead. The gun is striker-fired, with a trigger pull weight of 2.5 kilograms (5.5 lb). The Kiger-9c is made in standard and PRO versions, and the latter is immediately distinguished by lightening cuts affecting the front of the slide and other details we will see later. For both models the barrel length is 3.9 inches, or 10 centimeters.
The Kiger-9c semi-automatic is built around a frame that is ideally derived from that of the well-known Glock pistols, so much so that every part of it is compatible with the third-generation G19 model, re-designed to offer greater ergonomics. The side panels of the grip have a textured surface while the front and rear panels have a horizontal rised ribbing that enhances the grip. The beavertail is oversized, so that any contact between the firing hand and the moving slide is prevented, and a deep undecut is also present at the base of the trigger guard; this allows a firmer and higher gun grip, with beneficial effects on muzzle flip control. The front and lower sides of the trigger guard are ribbed so as to provide a safe surface for holding the gun with two hands. On both sides of the frame are two areas with non-slip surfaces, one near the slide release, the other along the dust cover with an indexing function. Put simply, these are surfaces recognizable by touch to be used as a reference for proper grip and finger positioning. In the PRO version both the slide and magazine releases are oversized, but while the former is reversible, the latter is on the left side only. A Picatinny rail allows a flashlight or other similar accessories to be mounted on the dust cover.
The Kiger-9c slide, standard or lightened
The 416R steel slide of the Kiger-9c is available as a standard version or with lightening cuts on the front section and cuts for direct optics mounting (PRO version). Barrel and slide have a matte black DLC finish. Both models are fitted with a set of Glock-compatible mechanical sights as standard, but those on the PRO model are higher so they can co-witness with a red dot. Another concession to contemporary fashion is the presence of front slide serrations. All the flat surfaces of the slide are slightly milled for weight reduction. Regardless of actual usefulness, the aesthetic effect is remarkable: the complexity of the surfaces of this gun is considerable and involves quite a bit of work and conveys an impression of great construction effort.
Speaking of prices, in the U.S. the standard 9c model costs $429, while to bring home the PRO model one has to shell out a "hefty" $539. Considering that prices can be translated directly into euros, one cannot but look with a different eye at these guns which, it should be remembered, are made entirely in the USA – a business argument that is always very convincing overseas.
Kiger-9c specs and price
| Manufacturer: | Anderson Manufacturing |
Model: | Kiger-9c - 9c PRO |
Caliber: | 9mm Luger |
Capacity: | 15 + 1 rounds |
Barrel Length: | 3.9"/100 mm |
Sights: | Adjustable notch, fixed front sight |
Frame Material: | Polymer |
Safety: | On the trigger, automatic on the firing pin |
Trigger Pull Weight: | 2.5 kg approx. |
Dimensions (LxWxH): | 186x32x131 mm |
Weight: | 566 g (standard version) |
Price (MSRP in the U.S.): | $429 (standard version) - $539 (PRO version) |
